Swiss marine power innovator WinGD is steering the maritime industry towards a sustainable future with its groundbreaking X-DF-A engines set to power EXMAR LPG’s upcoming ammonia-fueled vessels. This strategic move underscores the increasing momentum behind alternative fuels in the shipping sector.
WinGD is set to supply ammonia-fueled X-DF-A engines for two 46,000m³ LPG/ammonia carriers commissioned by EXMAR LPG BV, a collaboration between EXMAR and Seapeak, at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard. The delivery of the two X52DF-A engines is scheduled for Q2 2025, marking a significant stride in the adoption of ammonia as a marine fuel.
WinGD’s foray into ammonia-fueled gas carriers aligns with the industry trend of leveraging innovative power technologies. Traditionally, vessels transporting ammonia have been early adopters of new propulsion methods, and this move reflects the anticipation of a surge in the ammonia transport market. The increasing global demand for carbon-free fuels and hydrogen carriers is a driving force behind this evolution.
Volkmar Galke, Director of Sales at WinGD, affirms this transformative journey, stating, “Ammonia is set to become a mainstream sustainable marine fuel and energy carrier by mid-century, and we are delighted to be working with EXMAR to ensure that the vessels carrying the cargo will be among the first to use it.”
The collaboration extends beyond WinGD and EXMAR, involving key stakeholders such as Hyundai Heavy Industries, the engine builder. Close cooperation with all parties ensures that WinGD’s X52DF-A engines will not only power ammonia carriers but will also be adaptable to various vessel types keen on harnessing ammonia as a fuel.
Carl-Antoine Saverys, Deputy Director Shipping at EXMAR, emphasizes their commitment to innovation, stating, “With four decades of experience in handling ammonia cargoes, we are confident in our ability to safely and effectively use this innovative zero-carbon shipping fuel.”
The X-DF-A range, featuring high-pressure ammonia injection complemented by a low targeted dose of pilot fuel (approximately 5%), promises performance and fuel efficiency comparable to WinGD’s diesel-fueled X-Engines. Importantly, the engines are designed to meet Tier III NOx compliance on either ammonia or diesel fuel, with no after-treatment for N2O emissions foreseen.
The range, including the 72-bore variant, has received the stamp of approval in principle from Lloyd’s Register. This signifies a green light for ship owners to incorporate X-DF-A engines into their newbuilding plans today, reinforcing the practicality and viability of this cutting-edge technology.
As the maritime industry sails towards a sustainable horizon, WinGD’s initiative with EXMAR LPG showcases a commitment to pioneering eco-friendly solutions. The collaboration not only underscores the viability of ammonia as a marine fuel but also exemplifies the power of industry players uniting to drive sustainability forward.